‘Coffee Cup Reading (Yaman, Pt.2)’ is a sublime piece of purposeful artistry. One can approach the record from a few different angles, perhaps starting from its lyrical plane, something that directly relates to the accompanying video. Taking a striking look at the Middle East and its ravaged, war-stricken lands, Samuum ties a direct comparison to the contemporary chaos and anxiety that riddles our society. It’s a sensation that permeates everything: from those suffering on the ground to everyone else on the receiving end of a negative news cycle.
From a sonic standpoint, ‘Coffee Cup Reading (Yaman, Pt.2)’ is also highly rewarding, a plastic and eclectic blend of influences that’s rather hard to describe, but that makes perfect sense. Lusine Kocharian’s mangled, bold vocals and Ando Berberian’s overachieving production are the perfect match for such a vibrant and experimental offering, once again showcasing Samuum as the genius and relatable project they are. The video has been directed by Berberian himself and Alisa Zolonz.
Delving deeper into the meaningful ethos that propels ‘Coffee Cup Reading (Yaman, Pt.2)’, the group explain: “Nothing’s permanent in this region. Regimes rise and fall faster than your last playlist shuffle, countries collapse, new ones appear… so we’ve built up a certain immunity. And somehow, it’s the small, vital rituals that keep us sane. Reading coffee grounds is one of those rituals: half-mystic, half-playful, but quietly comforting. There’s a meditative magic to it, a very Middle Eastern form of therapy. Probably works no worse, and definitely does less harm, than antidepressants.”
Recommended! Discover ‘Coffee Cup Reading (Yaman, Pt.2)’ now: